What wireless systems is the Shure SB903 compatible with?

The SB903 is specifically designed for use with Shure SLX-D Digital Wireless transmitters. It is not intended for use with other Shure lines such as the BLX or GLX-D systems, which have their own specific power requirements.

How long does a full charge take?

A full charge for the SB903 takes approximately 2.5 hours when using a compatible Shure charger. This provides the maximum runtime for professional applications.

What is the maximum runtime of the SB903?

When fully charged, the SB903 provides up to 10 hours of continuous use. This duration is typically sufficient for full-day conferences or multiple consecutive performances.

Does the SB903 support fast charging?

Yes, the battery features a quick-charge capability for emergency situations. A 15-minute charge provides approximately one hour of transmitter operation.

Which chargers are required for the SB903?

The battery requires specific Shure chargers, namely the SBC10-903-UK single battery USB charger or the SBC203-UK dual-docking station. It cannot be charged using standard AA battery chargers.

Can I use standard AA batteries in an SLX-D transmitter?

Yes, SLX-D transmitters are designed to be flexible and can run on standard AA alkaline batteries. However, the SB903 is recommended for better telemetry and long-term cost savings.

How does the SB903 improve battery metering?

Unlike alkaline batteries which provide a generic voltage estimate, the SB903 communicates with the transmitter to display remaining runtime in hours and minutes. This allows for much more precise monitoring during a show.

Is the SB903 a Lithium-Ion battery?

Yes, it uses Lithium-Ion chemistry. This technology is preferred in professional audio for its lack of 'memory effect' and its ability to hold a charge during storage.

What are the environmental benefits of the SB903?

By using a rechargeable cell, users significantly reduce the number of single-use alkaline batteries sent to landfills. It is a more sustainable choice for high-frequency wireless users.

How much does the SB903 typically cost?

The battery typically retails for approximately £50 per unit. While the initial investment is higher than AAs, the savings accumulate over hundreds of charging cycles.

Can the SB903 be charged while inside the transmitter?

Yes, if you use the SBC203-UK Dual Docking Charger, you can place the entire SLX-D handheld or bodypack transmitter into the cradle to charge the SB903 without removing it.

Does the SB903 work with the Shure BLX series?

No, the SB903 is not compatible with the BLX series, such as the BLX24R/B58. The BLX series is designed primarily for use with AA alkaline batteries.

Gear article

Shure SB903 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery

The Shure SB903 is a dedicated lithium-ion rechargeable battery designed specifically for the SLX-D Digital Wireless system. It serves as a high-efficiency alternative to standard AA alkaline batteries, providing extended runtime and precise telemetry for compatible transmitters.

Shure SB903 Rechargeable Battery for SLX-D Wireless Systems

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Overview

The Shure SB903 is a professional-grade rechargeable power solution developed to replace disposable cells in modern wireless environments. While traditional wireless systems often rely on AA batteries, the SB903 utilizes lithium-ion chemistry to deliver more consistent voltage and sophisticated data communication between the battery and the SLX-D transmitter hardware.

Charging and Performance

The SB903 offers significant performance advantages regarding uptime and preparation. A full charge is achieved in approximately 2.5 hours, which yields 10 hours of continuous operation. For scenarios where time is limited, the battery supports a 'quick charge' feature where a 15-minute connection provides up to one hour of use.

To facilitate charging, users must employ specific Shure hardware. The battery is compatible with the SBC10-903-UK USB Single Battery Charger for individual units, or the SBC203-UK Dual Docking Station, which allows for drop-in charging of the entire transmitter or the battery alone.

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Suitability and Application

This battery is primarily suited for professional venues, houses of worship, and touring productions that utilise the Shure SLX-D ecosystem. By eliminating the need for single-use AA batteries, it reduces long-term operational costs and environmental impact. The precise metering provided by the SB903 allows engineers to monitor remaining life in hours and minutes rather than approximate bars, which is critical for live broadcast and high-stakes performances.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to standard alkaline batteries, the SB903 provides a more stable discharge curve, ensuring the transmitter performs optimally until the battery is exhausted. Unlike generic NiMH rechargeable batteries, the SB903 communicates directly with SLX-D receivers to report health and cycle counts.

While systems like the Shure BLX24R/B58 or the Trantec S4.1 often rely on traditional battery formats, the SLX-D's integration with the SB903 represents a shift toward the advanced power management found in higher-end systems like the Shure Axient Digital series.

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Frequently asked questions

What wireless systems is the Shure SB903 compatible with?: The SB903 is specifically designed for use with Shure SLX-D Digital Wireless transmitters. It is not intended for use with other Shure lines such as the BLX or GLX-D systems, which have their own specific power requirements.
How long does a full charge take?: A full charge for the SB903 takes approximately 2.5 hours when using a compatible Shure charger. This provides the maximum runtime for professional applications.
What is the maximum runtime of the SB903?: When fully charged, the SB903 provides up to 10 hours of continuous use. This duration is typically sufficient for full-day conferences or multiple consecutive performances.
Does the SB903 support fast charging?: Yes, the battery features a quick-charge capability for emergency situations. A 15-minute charge provides approximately one hour of transmitter operation.
Which chargers are required for the SB903?: The battery requires specific Shure chargers, namely the SBC10-903-UK single battery USB charger or the SBC203-UK dual-docking station. It cannot be charged using standard AA battery chargers.
Can I use standard AA batteries in an SLX-D transmitter?: Yes, SLX-D transmitters are designed to be flexible and can run on standard AA alkaline batteries. However, the SB903 is recommended for better telemetry and long-term cost savings.
How does the SB903 improve battery metering?: Unlike alkaline batteries which provide a generic voltage estimate, the SB903 communicates with the transmitter to display remaining runtime in hours and minutes. This allows for much more precise monitoring during a show.
Is the SB903 a Lithium-Ion battery?: Yes, it uses Lithium-Ion chemistry. This technology is preferred in professional audio for its lack of 'memory effect' and its ability to hold a charge during storage.
What are the environmental benefits of the SB903?: By using a rechargeable cell, users significantly reduce the number of single-use alkaline batteries sent to landfills. It is a more sustainable choice for high-frequency wireless users.
How much does the SB903 typically cost?: The battery typically retails for approximately £50 per unit. While the initial investment is higher than AAs, the savings accumulate over hundreds of charging cycles.
Can the SB903 be charged while inside the transmitter?: Yes, if you use the SBC203-UK Dual Docking Charger, you can place the entire SLX-D handheld or bodypack transmitter into the cradle to charge the SB903 without removing it.
Does the SB903 work with the Shure BLX series?: No, the SB903 is not compatible with the BLX series, such as the BLX24R/B58. The BLX series is designed primarily for use with AA alkaline batteries.